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Saturday, March 4, 2017

Vegas 7s Women: Eagles Beat Ireland, Make Semi-finals

Photo: Connie Hatfield

The U.S. have exacted revenge on Ireland after yesterday's loss with a 20-12 win in the Cup quarterfinals. The fact that it puts the Eagles in the semi-finals for the second tournament in a row has to be even sweeter. Head coach Richie Walker has to be pleased the way his team has played the last two tournaments, turning their season around.

Once again the early morning start seemed to have an impact on both teams as each struggled with handling early. However, it was the U.S. that would strike first. One of the things that they did better today than yesterday was their work at the breakdown and preventing Ireland from getting much going. That led to heaps of possession for the Eagles and soon they found Naya Tapper who busted down the wing for the score.

Take the jump to read more.Tapper was excellent in the match as was Alev Kelter who made several poaches at the breakdown. Those wins led to possession and soon Ryan Carlyle crossed over after a quick tap. That extended the lead to 10-0. Ireland did strike back just before the half to cut the deficit to 10-5.

In the second half it was all Eagles. First Kristen Thomas scored and then Naya Tapper scored a highlight try to extend the lead to 20-5. Ireland scored a try right at the end to make it 20-12.

The U.S. will now face the winner of New Zealand-Russia 3:56 p.m. et/12:56 p.m. pt.